An overview of the epidemiology of hypersensitivity drug reactions

Hypersensitivity reactions are but one of many different types of adverse drug reactions. Reactions of this type may be potentially lifethreatening, induce and prolong hospitalization, affect physicians' drug prescribing patterns and result in considerable socioeconomic costs. Well-designed epidemiological studies limited to allergic drug reactions are lacking; most of the studies related to this problem have included all types of adverse drug reactions. The results of such studies should help us to identify patients at risk, particularly those at risk for severe reactions, and allow us to implement preventive measures. This review will summarize current knowledge on the incidence, prevalence, mortality and risk factors for hypersensitivity drug reactions. (c) 2005 Elsevier SAS. Tous droits reserves.